Easy Cream Puff Dessert

This easy cream puff dessert transforms the classic French pastry into a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat without all the fuss of making individual puffs. The buttery pastry base is topped with a creamy vanilla filling and finished with whipped topping for a dessert that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort.

I first made this for a family reunion when I needed something that would feed a crowd without keeping me in the kitchen all day. The empty dish and requests for the recipe convinced me this would become my signature dessert for potlucks.

Ingredients

• Water: essential for creating steam which makes the pastry puff
• Butter: use unsalted for better control of flavor
• All purpose flour: provides structure while keeping the crust tender
• Eggs: gives richness and helps the pastry rise dramatically
• Cream cheese: creates a tangy base for the filling use full fat for best results
• Milk: whole milk produces the richest flavor but 2% works well too
• Instant French Vanilla Pudding: the shortcut that makes this dessert so easy
• Whipped topping: like Cool Whip creates the perfect light topping
• Chocolate syrup: adds the finishing touch that makes this dessert special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and coat a 13x9 inch baking dish with nonstick spray ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking. The spray helps the puffy crust release cleanly from the pan after baking.

Create the Pastry Base:

Melt butter with water in a saucepan over medium heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. This creates the steam necessary for the pastry to puff. Remove from heat immediately and add all the flour at once stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. The quick addition of flour prevents lumps from forming.

Cool and Add Eggs:

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling step prevents the eggs from cooking when added to the mixture. Add eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly between each addition until completely incorporated. Continue beating for a full two minutes after all eggs are added to incorporate air which helps the pastry rise.

Spread and Bake:

Transfer the sticky dough to your prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to spread the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan. The nonstick spray prevents the dough from sticking to your spatula making spreading much easier. Bake for 20 to 23 minutes until the crust is puffed up the sides and golden brown across the surface. Allow to cool completely before adding filling.

Prepare the Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese with one cup of milk using an electric mixer until smooth. Begin on low speed to prevent splattering then increase to high once initially combined. Add remaining milk and pudding mix beating on high speed for several minutes until the mixture thickens. The pudding will continue to set as it chills so stop mixing when it reaches a soft pudding consistency.

Assemble and Chill:

Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the completely cooled crust then top with whipped topping spreading it in an even layer. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to allow the dessert to set properly. Just before serving drizzle with chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern across the top.

This dessert reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen where I first learned to make traditional cream puffs. She would have loved this simplified version that captures all those classic flavors without the fuss. The French vanilla pudding is my favorite component as it adds a richness that reminds me of homemade pastry cream.

Flavor Variations

While French vanilla pudding creates the classic cream puff flavor, this versatile dessert can be customized with different pudding flavors. Chocolate pudding creates a chocolate éclair dessert that chocolate lovers adore. Cheesecake pudding enhances the cream cheese flavor for an extra tangy version. Coconut cream pudding with toasted coconut sprinkled on top transforms this into a tropical treat perfect for summer gatherings.

Make It From Scratch

If you prefer to avoid instant pudding, you can create a homemade filling. Combine 1 cup sugar, ¼ cup cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Whisk in 3 cups milk and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons butter. Cool completely before folding in the softened cream cheese and proceeding with the recipe. This made from scratch version takes slightly more effort but delivers exceptional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert shines at room temperature rather than straight from the refrigerator. Remove it from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. For an elegant presentation, slice with a knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. Add fresh berries alongside each serving for a pop of color and complementary flavor. For special occasions, dust each plate with powdered sugar or add a mint leaf garnish.

Storage Tips

This cream puff dessert keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days when covered tightly with plastic wrap. The flavor actually improves after the first day as the components meld together. For best results, wait to add the chocolate drizzle until just before serving. This dessert does not freeze well as the texture of the whipped topping and pastry crust will deteriorate upon thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes, you can substitute French Vanilla Pudding with Cheesecake, White Chocolate, or Coconut Cream flavors for a unique twist.

→ How long should I chill the dessert?

Chill for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling for 2 to 4 hours provides the best texture.

→ What’s the best way to spread the dough?

Use a non-stick sprayed offset spatula to evenly spread the sticky dough in the baking dish.

→ Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate. The crust softens slightly overnight but remains delicious.

→ Can I add extra toppings?

Yes, feel free to add fresh fruits, nuts, or additional chocolate drizzle for extra flavor and presentation.